About Lake Superior Tall Ships Inc. 

Sailing with Purpose Since 2014

Lake Superior Tall Ships Inc. (LSTS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Bayfield, Wisconsin, dedicated to the idea that the "Big Lake" is the world’s greatest classroom. We provide life-changing "unplugged" adventures and clear pathways to maritime careers for the next generation.

By navigating the unique challenges of Lake Superior, our participants develop the leadership, teamwork, and resilience necessary to navigate the challenges of life.

Our Core Pillars

We focus our energy on four specific areas of impact:

• Maritime Workforce Development: Introducing youth to the wide world of maritime careers—from the bridge to the engine room. We help teens see themselves in an industry that depends on the next generation of sailors, engineers, and scientists.

• Youth Leadership & Development: Using traditional seamanship to build confidence and character. Our programs emphasize personal responsibility and "real-wind" exposure.

• Maritime Heritage: We preserve the history of the Great Lakes, keeping the traditions of tall ship sailing alive and accessible to the public.

• Lake Superior Stewardship: Fostering a deep, personal connection to the Great Lakes to ensure our pristine waters are protected for centuries to come.

Our Mission in Action

The heart of our work happens on the water and within our community partnerships. Learn more about the platforms that make our mission possible:

Our Ships

Schooner Abbey Road – A heavy-displacement William Garden schooner. She is a stable, training vessel designed to handle the "Big Lake" with grace, offering students a hands-on, tactile introduction to traditional seamanship.

Schooner Zeeto – A rare, three-masted Tern Schooner. Rescued and refitted, Zeeto is a gaff-rigged beauty with a long history in the Apostle Islands. Her three-masted rig offers a more complex sail plan, providing an advanced training platform for our maritime career students.

Youth Programs

Scout Ship 336 Luna – LSTS has partnered with the Bayfield area Sea Scout Ship 336 since 2014 to provide young men and women with a year round platform where they learn, grow, find adventure, and build long lasting friendships.

Introduction to Maritime Careers – The maritime industry is facing a challenge: a critical shortage of skilled mariners is looming as the current workforce retires. New talent is urgently needed and Lake Superior Tall Ships sees this as an untapped opportunity for young men and women. Discover how we are bridging the gap to professional careers on the water.